The upcoming NHL matchup between the Chicago Blackhawks (23-46-11) and the Montreal Canadiens (39-31-10) is set to take place on Monday, April 14, 2025, at the Bell Centre in Montreal. This game marks the second meeting between these two teams this season, with Chicago winning the previous encounter 4-2 on January 3, 2025.
Team Overview
Montreal Canadiens
The Canadiens enter this game holding the second Eastern Conference wild-card spot, but their playoff hopes are still uncertain after a recent 1-0 overtime loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Montreal has lost two consecutive games and will be looking to bounce back in front of their home crowd, where they have a solid record of 22-12-5.
Montreal’s offense is led by Nick Suzuki, who has amassed 87 points this season, including 29 goals and 58 assists. Cole Caufield is another key contributor, with 37 goals and 68 points. On defense, Lane Hutson has been impactful, tallying 58 assists and 64 points. In goal, Sam Montembeault has been reliable, with a 30-24-6 record, a 2.83 goals-against average (GAA), and a .901 save percentage.
Chicago Blackhawks
The Blackhawks, already eliminated from playoff contention, are looking to play spoiler as they close out their season. Chicago has struggled on the road, with a record of 8-26-5, and has lost seven of its last nine games. Despite their challenges, the Blackhawks boast some standout players, including Ryan Donato, who leads the team with 31 goals and 61 points, and Connor Bedard, who has contributed 63 points with 21 goals and 42 assists.
Chicago’s defense has been a weak point, ranking last in the league in goals-against average (3.6) and shots allowed per game (31.1). Goalie Arvid Soderblom has struggled, posting a 9-18-7 record, a 3.19 GAA, and a .899 save percentage.
Key Matchup Factors
- Montreal’s Home Advantage: The Canadiens have been strong at home, and their fans will be eager to see them secure a crucial win to solidify their playoff position.
- Chicago’s Spoiler Role: With no playoff pressure, the Blackhawks may play with a sense of freedom, potentially catching Montreal off guard.
- Top Performers: Suzuki and Caufield will be pivotal for Montreal, while Donato and Bedard will need to step up for Chicago.
Recent Form
- Montreal Canadiens: 6-3-1 in their last 10 games, averaging 2.7 goals per game while allowing 2.3 goals per game.
- Chicago Blackhawks: 3-5-2 in their last 10 games, averaging 3.2 goals per game but conceding 3.5 goals per game.
Chicago Blackhawks 6.5
Montreal Canadiens – 285
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Sunday, April 13, 2025
